Rachel Ray hosts a sold-out crowd in South Beach at the 2025 Burger Bash.

February 20th, 2025

The 2025 South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF) Burger Bash was nothing short of spectacular, bringing together burger enthusiasts, top chefs, and celebrity judges for a night of indulgence under the Miami sky. Hosted by Rachael Ray, the beloved annual event featured a mouthwatering array of burgers, craft cocktails, and even a few sweet surprises, making it a true paradise for food lovers.

As guests stepped into the lively festival atmosphere, they were met with dozens of burger stations, each serving up unique and flavorful creations from some of the best chefs and restaurants across the country. Whether it was a classic cheeseburger done to perfection or an extravagant, over-the-top creation with unexpected toppings, there was something to satisfy every palate. From juicy patties dripping with gourmet sauces to crisp, toasted buns that added the perfect crunch, every bite felt like a competition in itself. Some restaurants leaned into bold, international flavors—incorporating spices, truffle aioli, caramelized onions, smoky bacon, and even foie gras, while others stuck to tried-and-true traditional American styles.

Since no great burger experience is complete without the perfect pairing, the event also featured an open bar with endless cocktails, beers, wines, and sodas. Whether you were in the mood for an ice-cold beer, a handcrafted whiskey cocktail, or a refreshing soda, there was no shortage of drinks to keep the night flowing.For those looking for a sweet treat between burger tastings, a few select booths also offered artisan ice cream, adding a cool and creamy contrast to all the savory flavors.

As always, Burger Bash was about more than just eating—it was a competition to determine who could claim the title of best burger. This year, two highly coveted awards were handed out:Voted on by the fans, the People’s Choice Award went to La Birra Bar, whose Chimichurri Burger won over the crowd with its bold, zesty flavors. The burger, featuring a juicy patty topped with their signature chimichurri sauce, stood out among the fierce competition. With multiple locations across South Florida, La Birra Bar’s victory solidifies its reputation as a go-to spot for burger lovers.

For the Best Burger Award, a panel of celebrity judges took on the delicious but difficult task of picking a winner. This year, Skinny Louie took home the grand prize with their Wagyu Burger, which showcased the rich, buttery flavor of premium Wagyu beef. The carefully crafted burger impressed the judges, earning top marks for both taste and presentation. The panel of esteemed judges included: Rita Tennyson – Renowned food critic and culinary journalist, Owen Han – Popular social media food creator, Tyler Cameron – TV personality and food enthusiast, Manolo Vergara – Actor and foodie, Meg Radice and Audrey Jongens – The dynamic duo behind the Instagram-famous @TheVIPList

One of the highlights of Burger Bash is the chance for fans to interact with their favorite chefs, restaurant teams, and celebrity judges. Attendees met the masterminds behind the burgers, learning about their inspirations and techniques while getting insider tips on how to recreate their flavors at home. Adding to the excitement, guests had the opportunity to mingle with the judges, snapping photos, sharing laughs, and even discussing their personal favorite bites of the night. This interactive element made the event feel exclusive and intimate, despite the large crowd.

Cordelia

The 2025 SOBEWFF Burger Bash once again delivered an unforgettable night of food, drinks, and fun, cementing its status as one of the most anticipated events of the festival. From the endless variety of burgers to the high-energy atmosphere, it was a true celebration of culinary creativity and craftsmanship. Whether you were there to taste, vote, or simply indulge, one thing is certain: SOBEWFF continues to set the standard for epic food festivals. If this year’s event is any indication, burger fans have a lot to look forward to in 2026.

San Matteo